Sub-Committee on Biotechnology and Food Science (SC-BFS) – Terms of Reference
The SC-BFS was formed from the merger of the Subcommittee on Biotechnology (SCB) and the Subcommittee on Food Science and Technology (SCFST). The SC-BFS promotes the adoption of innovative technologies to advance the agriculture, food, and forestry industries while ensuring the sustainable use of water resources. By integrating biotechnology with food science, the subcommittee addresses the water–food–energy nexus and promotes a circular bioeconomy. Its objectives include enhancing food safety and quality, driving healthcare innovation, and ensuring that all regional bio-based advancements adhere to rigorous bioethics and compliance standards. It also seeks to further develop human resources in these fields to ensure long-term regional food security and medical resilience.
The focus areas of SC-BFS for the period of 2026-2035 are:
- Bio-Based Products
- Sustainable Agriculture and Aquaculture
- Food Innovation, Safety, and Quality
- Water–Food–Energy Nexus
- Circular and Bioeconomy
- Healthcare and Medical Technology and Innovation
- Bioethics and Compliance
- Sector Priorities #7: Adoption of innovative technologies to promote sustainable water use and advance agriculture, food, and forestry industries.
The Chairmanship shall be held for 2 years, from January of the first year to December of the second year. The rotation of the Chairmanship shall follow alphabetical order.
2026-2027: Malaysia
2028-2029: Myanmar
2030-2031: Philippines
2032-2033: Singapore
2034-2035: Thailand/Timor Leste*
2036-2037: Vietnam
2038-2039: Brunei Darussalam
*Timor-Leste will co-chair the subcommittee with Thailand to facilitate learning. Timor- Leste will chair independently once ready, at which point the matrix will be revised accordingly.
To be updated